Another wonderful artist has left us.
Following the tragic news that George Michael has passed away, friends and admirers from the entertainment world have lovingly expressed just what an impact his music and life had on them.
The 53-year-old singer passed away peacefully in his home last night. A statement from his publicist read:
“It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period. The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage.”
Billboard magazine quoted Michael’s manager Michael Lippman as saying the singer had died of heart failure.
After selling more than 25 million records as a member of Wham! alongside Andrew Ridgeley, Michael continued to have a stellar solo career. He sold more than 100 million records worldwide and in the process, garnered seven number one singles in the UK and eight number one hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
He also won a plethora of music awards throughout his 30-year career, including three Brit Awards, four Ivor Novello Awards, three American Music Awards, and two Grammy Awards from eight nominations.
As the news sinks in, famous fans of the singer are taking to Twitter to express their condolences. RIP George Michael.
Heartbroken at the loss of my beloved friend Yog. Me, his loved ones, his friends, the world of music, the world at large. 4ever loved. A xx https://t.co/OlGTm4D9O6
— Andrew Ridgeley (@ajridgeley) December 26, 2016
2016 – loss of another talented soul. All our love and sympathy to @GeorgeMichael's family. pic.twitter.com/3h4xqEDXR9
— Duran Duran (@duranduran) December 25, 2016
Another incredible talent gone. Thank you for all the music Mr George Michael. Thoughts with your family and friends… 🙏🏼🙏🏼
— Disclosure (@disclosure) December 25, 2016
George Michael was a kind and gentle soul. #Wham
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) December 26, 2016
I've loved George Michael for as long as I can remember. He was an absolute inspiration. Always ahead of his time.
— James Corden (@JKCorden) December 25, 2016
What a strange sad end to our CHRISTMAS DAY. RIP George Michael on Graham Norton 2003 (Part 3/3) https://t.co/Tjy4nuGGa6 via @YouTube
— graham norton (@grahnort) December 26, 2016
Farewell My Friend! 🙏🏻 Another Great Artist leaves us. 💔Can 2016 Fuck Off NOW? pic.twitter.com/aEGIUNSJbt
— Madonna (@Madonna) December 26, 2016
In what could be the clearest indication of his remarkable talent, take a look at George Michael covering a song that was made famous by arguably the greatest frontman of all time.
He was such a remarkable talent.
Feature: Michael Putland / Getty Images
